Beyonce = Role Model

Beyonce is a Feminist Icon
Beyonce is a feminist icon and it is evident in not only Formation but also in her other music videos and her live performances. According to David Gauntlet's view on role model, Beyonce would fall under the 'challenging stereotypes' role model. The reason is because Beyonce goes against the idea of 'feminine' women. In the Formation music video in terms of body language, uses a lot of aggressive gestures when dancing. Also, there is a scene in front of the church where we see Beyonce positioned in the middle of two men and in front of them. This shows that instead of following the stereotype that women need men instead in this scene we see the men needing women.

Formation is groundbreaking
The political and social messages in Formation have made the music video extremely popular and very influential. The inter textual reference about Hurricane Katrina was a political message put forward by Beyonce. She emphasised the fact that there are still victims suffering from the hurricane. The reason why Formation was so groundbreaking was because of the historical parallels with references to racism and slavery.

Beyonce is a star
Beyonce is an extremely well acomplished, successful female artist. She has become a star through her many music videos which bring awareness to man popular political and social issues. There is evidence of Beyonce being a star as Formation was one of her most watched music videos and the most talked about at the time especially as it was released the day before Beyonce performed at the Super Bowl final.

What gender ideologies are evident in the music video of formation and what message is provided for the female audience?
Formation uses stereotypes such as sexualised images of black females that could be interpreted as positive (strong and empowering) or negative (objectified). The dance sections where she wears short/tight or revealing outfits as well as some of the sexualised lyrics.

How does the representation of Beyonce differ from other female music artists?
Beyonce differs from other female music artists because she is mainly represented as a person of strength and power. In the music video, Beyonce makes direct address to the audience by gazing directly at us, also she stands in a strong and powerful stance.

How is ethic stereotypes supported or challenged in Formation?
The music video challenges traditional inequalities of power by placing a black woman in a position of control. Antebellum dresses seem to reference slavery with stereotypical "pop" signifers such as tight fitting/revealing costume in some of the dance sections.